New York Knicks: Phil Jackson Starts New Era By Releasing Coaching Staff

By Luis Tirado Jr.

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The new era has begun for one of the most iconic franchises in all of professional basketball.

In a widely-anticipated move after one of the worst seasons in franchise history, Phil Jackson has effectively released the entire coaching staff of the New York Knicks. Jackson can now start putting together a championship contender. Mike Woodson has effectively been fired and now the search begins for a new head coach to steer the team back to winning territory.

What exactly happens now? Well, Jackson will now have to assess every single aspect of the Knicks to ensure they bounce back from a dismal season. It all starts with finding a quality replacement for head coach and have that individual build a better staff. There have been much speculation as to which direction Jackson will go, with many believing it could very well be Steve Kerr.

Woodson did his best considering the circumstances, so all blame shouldn’t just fall on his shoulders. However, considering the season that the Knicks endured, accountability starts from the top. Despite leading the Knicks to their first playoff series win last year, it all fell apart this season. Lack of hustle, off-court distractions and the team’s downward spiral in 2013-14 led to Woodson’s dismissal.

It also didn’t help that owner James Dolan put the Knicks on a pedestal to start the season, claiming that they were heading for an NBA championship. Now, instead of proclamations, it’s up Jackson to do what he does best and rebuild this franchise.